Pastor Aaron Perdue

Let me share some ideas for praying for first responders and city officials here in Colorado Springs. Each day, our thriving city is kept safe and governed by dedicated, hardworking people who want the best for our city. I also want the best for my city because when my city thrives, I thrive. 

That’s not just my opinion. It’s biblical: “And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace” (Jeremiah 29:7). 

One way I will see the peace for my city is when I pray to the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, and ask His blessings on my city and all who live and work here.

The most important thing to pray for anyone is that they would place their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior, who forgave their sins. When people have Jesus living inside them, they have THE source of strength, wisdom, and power to guide them as they do their jobs.

I’m grateful to the first responders in Colorado Springs, including firefighters, police, paramedics, and EMTs. They are responsible for responding to emergency scenes and providing assistance. Their high-pressure jobs cause emotional and physical stress for them and their families.

The Healing Act of Prayer

Whenever you drive past a fire station, police station, or hospital, let that be a reminder to pray for these workers. We may not know them personally, but God knows them and their needs. The Holy Spirit can guide you in your prayers as you bring them to God. 

Here are some points to help target your prayers:

Physical safety on the job

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” 

Proverbs 18:10

Wisdom as they make split-second decisions. 

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

Courage to do their job, no matter how overwhelming or dangerous it might seem. “…Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where you go.” Joshua 1:9

Peace and calm in fearful and chaotic situations.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

Strength to endure through long hours and difficult situations.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” 

Matthew 11:28

Unity among workers to support each other and focus on the task.

“Therefore, comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Another important group to remember in our prayers is city officials. Sometimes, we only contact our city officials to complain. What would happen if we contacted our city officials, asked them for any prayer requests, and prayed with them? As a pastor who makes decisions for a church, I know how important it is for people to pray for me. Imagine running a city of half a million without any prayer support!

Here are some prayer targets for our city officials:

Integrity

“The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.” Proverbs 11:3

Discernment in decision making 

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6

Humbleness 

“…walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1–3

Speak truth 

“Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit.” Psalm 34:13

Justice 

“Learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.” Isaiah 1:17

Expose corruption

“For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known.” Luke 12:2

Fiscally responsible

“Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds.” Proverbs 27:23

Thank you for joining me in praying for our first responders and city officials. May God bless Colorado Springs!

Maybe you’re new to Colorado Springs and are looking for a Bible-believing church that understands the power of prayer. We’d love to have you join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM, or on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM.